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Lighter Spinach Alfredo Pasta

Lighter Spinach Alfredo Pasta for Guilt-Free Comfort

Enjoy a healthier twist on creamy Alfredo with this Lighter Spinach Alfredo Pasta that satisfies your cravings guilt-free.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 12 oz penne pasta Can substitute with fettuccine, rigatoni, or gluten-free pasta
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter Dairy-free butter can be used for a vegan alternative
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced
  • 2 cups whole milk Reduced-fat or plant-based milk can be used
  • 6 oz cream cheese Dairy-free cream cheese can be used
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon salt Adjust based on preference
  • freshly cracked black pepper To taste
  • 4 cups baby spinach Thawed frozen spinach can be used if fresh is unavailable

Equipment

  • pot
  • Colander
  • skillet
  • whisk

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add penne pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Lower heat to medium-low and whisk in whole milk and cream cheese. Stir for 3-5 minutes until smooth.
  4. Stir in grated Parmesan and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens. Season with salt and black pepper.
  5. Fold in baby spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese or black pepper as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for up to 2 months.

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